Maryland State Flower – Black-eyed Susan

Official State Flower of Maryland

The Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) became the official state flower of Maryland in 1918. According to the Maryland Historical Society, this yellow-orange Maryland flower with black eyes was first used as an emblem by Marylanders during the Revolutionary War and has continued to be used ever since, even earning its place on the state flag. This beautiful flower is found throughout the state, blooming from late spring to early fall. The Black-eyed Susan’s scientific name, Rudbeckia hirta, honors two Swedish professors, Olof Rudbeck and his son, Otto Rudbeck, who were botanists during the 1600s and 1700s.

Cultural Significance of State Flower of Maryland

The Black-eyed Susan is a member of the Aster family and is also known as the Gloriosa Daisy, Brown-eyed Susan, and Yellow Oxeye Daisy. Black-eyed Susans are well known for their extreme adaptability and ability to survive almost everywhere. These perennial flowers – black eyed susan varieties are hardy enough to thrive in front yards, roadside ditches, and even cracks in sidewalks. They have evolved into the ideal representations of resiliency, inspiration, and encouragement. Black-eyed Susans are classified under the genus Rudbeckia, which was obtained from the names of well-known Swedish scientists Olof Rudbeck the Elder and Younger.

Olof Rudbeck the Elder’s work had the ardent backing of Swedish Queen Christina. Even better, he was able to establish Sweden’s first botanical garden, formerly known as Rudbeck’s Garden. After he died, his son carried on with his studies and rose to prominence as a professor and scientist.

On June 13, 2025, the Aberdeen Proving Ground community planted 250 black-eyed Susans at the Living Legacy Forest to mark the Army’s 250th birthday and honor fallen Soldiers. The event included Gold Star families, APG leaders, children, and community members, with remarks highlighting resilience, hope, and remembrance. Chosen for their history as Maryland’s state flower and their symbolism of strength, the black-eyed Susans will bloom in October for Gold Star Family Day. No wonder that whether you step into a Silver Spring, MD, Florist or attend spring festivals, Black-eyed Susans are always featured as a proud representation of the state.

Black-eyed Susan Flower Meaning

The meaning of the Black-eyed Susan flower is happiness, warmth, and love. The Black-eyed Susan is a beautiful flower that symbolizes all that is good in Maryland. The state flower of Maryland is a symbol of our state’s history and pride. Marylanders can be seen wearing a lapel or headpiece with this bright yellow beauty throughout the year. One way to show your Maryland pride while you are visiting the Eastern Shore or Northern Neck is to buy a beautiful Black-eyed Susan flower arrangement at one of our many craft shows!

Black-eyed Susan Flower Symbolism

The Black-eyed Susan is often linked to resilience, justice, and encouragement. Many see it as a flower that carries hope during difficult times. Folklore describes these spring flowers in Maryland as a symbol of women’s strength while waiting for loved ones to return from battles or long journeys. Its dark center is said to represent hardship, while the golden petals stand for optimism and better days ahead. In American tradition, it has also come to reflect fairness and motivation, showing that even in hard situations, strength and beauty can persist. Your florist in Frederick, MD, may recommend Black-eyed Susans as part of arrangements meant to inspire strength and hope.

Black-eyed Susan Flower Facts

• The Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) is the state flower of Maryland.
• It was adopted as the state flower in 1918.
• The Black-eyed Susan i.e Maryland state flower is a member of the sunflower family and is native to North America.
• The plant grows to be about 2-3 feet tall and has yellow or gold petals with a black or brown center. 
• There are approximately 20 species of Black-eyed Susans in North America, but only two that grow naturally in Maryland: R. hirta and R. fulgida var. laciniata, which are not found anywhere else on Earth. 
• Black-eyed Susans can be found from Canada down to Florida, but are most common in the central United States and northeastern Mexico. 
• The genus name, Rudbeckia, honors Olof Rudbeckius who authored the first botanical book printed in Sweden.

The Black-eyed Susan is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of conditions. The flower blooms from June to September and can be found in meadows, fields, and roadsides throughout Maryland. If you’re looking for a way to show your Maryland pride through ordering flowers online, try SnapBlooms for FREE Online flower delivery.

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